The cell is a richly appointed chamber, with rugs laid upon the floor and hung from the ceiling, chairs and tables, a table for reading, and a glass of some drink. A young woman in a silken green dress occupies the place, and one may observe her through a viewing-opening. She is Mahidevran Hatun, the favoured concubine of Suleiman. She tells of having been kept secluded some few days for her safety, and asks whether Suleiman is at last ready to receive her.